Mike Evans Ramps Up Defense as 49ers Aim for Super Bowl Run
During his first press conference as a member of the 49ers, Mike Evans had some big claims for his future with the team.
The San Francisco 49ers made one of the biggest splashes of the offseason when they signed veteran wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year deal. Now officially introduced in Santa Clara, Evans made it clear he didn’t come to the Bay Area just to finish his career; he came to win a championship. After watching the 49ers battle through injuries during the 2025 season and still reach the postseason, Evans believes the team was closer to a title run than many realize.
New #49ers WR Mike Evans, in his introductory press conference: "I feel like they were one piece away, and I'm that piece. " — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 12, 2026 “They always compete,” Evans said. “Even with the injuries last year.
I feel like they were one piece away, and I think that I’m that piece. ” Evans spent the first 12 seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he built a Hall of Fame-caliber résumé. Over 176 games, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches.
Despite the comfort of his long-time NFL home, Evans said football reasons ultimately led him to San Francisco. “Football-wise, this was the best spot for me for sure,” Evans said. “I’ve always appreciated how the Niners went about their business, and I’ve always loved the way Kyle calls the games.